Trans Swiss Trail, Stage 9/32

The route follows the River Sense, then winds up to the heights with views of the Alpine peaks. Proud farmsteads in Mengestorf stand in contrast to the residential outskirts of Bern, where the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage.

From Laupen railway station, the route leads out of the small town. Laupen Castle dominates the scene from the outset. This medieval 12th-century fortification towers above the confluence of the Sense and Saane. The trail then alternates between settlements, open meadows and woodland. It reaches Flamatt via Sensebrügg before entering the quieter uplands between Laupen and Köniz.

Broad hiking trails lead steadily up and down through the rural surroundings. For a short stretch, the route follows the Gaselbach. Near Mängistorfberg, the highest point of the hike is reached at around 730 metres. The trail then descends gradually towards Köniz via Mengestorf and through Herrehölzi. The landscape becomes increasingly urban. For the final three kilometres or so, the route leaves the marked hiking trail network and continues through Bern’s residential districts. After around 22 kilometres and just over five and a half hours, the hike ends in Bern, right by the Bärenpark stop.